By Johnson Adebowale
Laughter and warm embraces filled the air at Wiseview Legal Consultancy in Lekki, Lagos, as the firm celebrated its 15th anniversary with a heartfelt tribute to its founder, retired Supreme Court Justice George Adesola Oguntade. The event, a gathering of legal titans, former colleagues, and grateful mentees, painted a vivid picture of a man whose influence extends far beyond the courtroom, shaping not just a successful legal practice but also the lives and careers of numerous lawyers.
Established in 2010, Wiseview has blossomed into a respected name in Nigerian legal circles, renowned for its commitment to excellence, its nurturing environment for young lawyers, and its unwavering dedication to pro bono work – a testament to Justice Oguntade’s deeply ingrained sense of social responsibility. The firm’s journey is inextricably linked to the values and vision of its founder, a legal luminary remembered for his sharp intellect, unwavering integrity, and profound compassion.
Speaker after speaker at the anniversary event echoed the same sentiment: Justice Oguntade is more than just a legal icon; he is a mentor, a guide, and a beacon of ethical conduct. Former colleagues reminisced about his distinguished career on the bench, while mentees shared personal anecdotes of how his guidance shaped their professional trajectories. The prevailing theme was not just legal prowess, but the Justice’s deep-seated desire to cultivate a new generation of lawyers grounded in both legal expertise and a commitment to justice for all.
Gbenga Ajala, the firm’s Deputy Managing Partner, offered a moving tribute to his mentor and the ethos that underpins Wiseview. Charting his own journey from a young associate to a senior partner under Justice Oguntade’s tutelage, Ajala emphasized the invaluable lessons learned, not just in the intricacies of law but in the fundamental humanity that should underpin its practice.
“It was a complete education,” Ajala recounted, “From handling case files to appearing in courts and participating in arbitration proceedings within and outside Nigeria, there was always a lesson to learn, whether it was about the technicalities of the law or the humanity behind it.” He proudly noted the numerous professional certifications he attained during his time at Wiseview, a direct result of the firm’s commitment to continuous learning and development.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Wiseview’s early years, Ajala recalled, was its founder’s profound empathy for those unable to afford legal representation. “People used to joke that we were an NGO firm,” he chuckled, explaining Justice Oguntade’s frequent instruction to “e lo ba won se” (go and help them) whenever concerns were raised about clients facing financial hardship. This spirit of selfless service has become deeply ingrained in Wiseview’s DNA, a defining characteristic that persists even as the firm thrives in a competitive legal landscape.
Ajala proudly announced that over 50 lawyers have passed through the nurturing environment of Wiseview, many of whom are now making significant contributions to the legal profession. These alumni, he noted, stand as a living testament to Justice Oguntade’s enduring legacy and far-reaching influence.
The Right Reverend Akinpelu Johnson of the Anglican Church, Lagos Mainland Diocese, offered a spiritual perspective, commending Justice Oguntade for his dedication to nation-building and his exemplary service on the bench. He offered prayers for Wiseview’s continued success, expressing confidence that the “e lo ba won se” spirit instilled by the founder would continue to guide those who have passed through its doors.
The anniversary celebration was graced by the presence of several Senior Advocates of Nigeria, including Chief GMO Oguntade (SAN), Dr Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), Mr Adekunle Oyesanya SAN, and Mr Chukudi Enebeli (SAN), further underscoring the high regard in which Justice Oguntade and Wiseview Legal Consultancy are held within the Nigerian legal community.
As Wiseview Legal Consultancy marks this significant milestone, it stands not just as a successful law firm, but as a testament to the power of one man’s vision to blend legal excellence with compassion, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to serving the cause of justice with a human heart. The legacy of Justice George Adesola Oguntade continues to shape not only the firm he founded but also the future of the Nigerian legal profession.